Voluntary evacuations in Constance Bay as city shuts down Bayview Drive

Residents in 150 homes along Bayview Drive in Constance Bay are being asked by the city to evacuate as the flood waters approach their expected peak in the next day or so. 

21 homes across the city have already been evacuated. 

Homes with addresses between 536 Bayview Dr. to 1062 Bayview Dr. are being told that it is no longer considered safe for them to stay in their homes, as water levels continue to rise. 

The city doesn't have the authority to force people to evacuate, but they are urging them to leave. 

Bayview Drive will be closed to traffic, and the city says that it will be cutting off power to the area in the near future, since the water level is approaching the level where it will reach electrical infrastructure. Residents will be given time to gather their belongings. 

“We are engaged now in a door knocking…to check on these individuals and to advise them of the appropriateness of evacuating at this time,” said Pierre Poirier, manager of security and emergency management with the City of Ottawa. 

Mayor Jim Watson reiterated the message, explaining that he strongly recommend these people leave their homes for their own well being. 

“It's an emotional decision to move out of your home, but it's the right decision to make at this time,” said Watson. 

The Richcraft Recreation Complex in Kanata is being set up to receive evacuees. 

“We're going to do everything we can to try and give them some element of comfort. The Richcraft centre (recreation complex) has showers, there will be air mattresses and cots available and food certainly,” the mayor said. 

At the moment, the evacuation suggestion only applies to select homes on Bayview Drive. However, “we're prepared to make the door to door request in other areas,” said Poirier. “We do have evacuation plans specific to other areas of the city, as required.”

The city is preparing for rain, snow, and freezing rain over the coming days which could make the situation worse.